How to Find the Best Headphones
Best Headphones Under $200, Generally, headsets that are in the $200 range tend to offer a higher quality audio performance and added features such as active noise canceling, smart controls, or other customization options.[1]Additionally, they usually have long battery life and quick charging capabilities.
Whether you are looking for an ideal pair of headphones to upgrade your current ones or just buy some, it is important to do research before making a purchase.
Best In-Ear Monitors Under $200
A pair of headphones is an essential accessory for music lovers. But finding a pair that is affordable, comfortable to wear for long periods of time and delivers quality audio is a challenge. [2]This is especially true for those who want to find a pair of headphones under $200 that are truly wireless, have active noise cancellation and are also made with impact-resistant materials. Fortunately, there are a number of options available.
For those who are looking for a pair of headphones that are both comfortable to wear and can be used in a variety of situations, the Sennheiser PXC 550-II is a great option. They feature a comfortable over-ear design and offer a rich sound that’s perfect for listening to music or talking on the phone. In addition, they are lightweight and have a great battery life. They’re also available in a wide range of colors.
Another pair of headphones that’s worth considering is the Skullcandy Crusher Evo. These headphones are an over-ear style and feature soft, thick ear pads that make them comfortable for extended wearing sessions.[3] They also have an excellent battery life of 30 hours and offer Bluetooth 5.0 wireless connectivity with low latency. They also come with a companion app for easy customizations and adjustments.
The Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro is one of the best headphones under 200 that offers both closed-back and open-back features. Its semi-open design is suitable for all genres of music and has an exceptional sound clarity that’s great for audiophiles and music production professionals. It also has a high-quality build that makes it durable and hard-wearing.
The Audio-Technica ATH-ANC700BT is another great pair of headphones under $200 that’s worth considering. They’re designed with advanced noise cancelling technology that uses multiple mics to eliminate ambient sound. They also have 40 mm sound drivers for exceptional audio performance. In addition, they have a sleek design that’s perfect for on-the-go use and provide 27 hours of playtime with or without the noise canceling feature. They’re also lightweight and made with impact-resistant materials for durability. They’re also a stylish choice that will look good in any setting.[4]
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
This wireless pair of over-ear headphones has all the bells and whistles you could ask for. They’re not only comfortable to wear for hours and come with a stylish travel case, but they also feature an active noise-canceling function that will allow you to escape into your music without distractions, even when listening on a plane or in a busy office.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 has a very natural sound that’s well-balanced and works with most music genres. Highs are smooth, mids are nicely balanced with a bit more warmth than some other headsets, and bass is punchy without being overwhelming or too heavy.[5] One thing that stands out about the sound of these headphones is their low distortion levels. This is mainly due to the ATH-M50xBT2’s unique U-shaped frequency response, and it’s rare that you see sub bass distortion levels this low in headphones at any price point.
Another bonus with these headphones is their impressive battery performance. They have been rated for 50 hours of continuous play, which means you’ll never have to worry about running out of power during your long listening sessions. And, if for whatever reason you do run out of juice, the headset has passive audio playback that allows you to continue listening to your content without any interruptions.
One of the best features of this pair of headphones is that they can be used with your phone or tablet to stream audio directly from your device, as well. And, if you do want to use them with a computer or laptop, this headphone comes with an auxiliary cable that includes a mini-USB connector so you can connect it with any headphone port.[6]
As far as wireless over-ear headphones go, the ATH-M50xBT2 are some of the most well-rounded in the $200 range. They have a luxurious feel to them thanks to their plush ear pads and headband, and they’re surprisingly lightweight for how sturdy they are. They also offer a host of modern conveniences like touch controls, 24 hours of battery life, Bluetooth 4.1 wireless connectivity, and ear detection.
Plantronics BackBeat FIT 6100
For many people, headphones are an integral part of their daily routine. Whether they’re working out in the gym, commuting to work, or just relaxing at home, high-quality headphones are an essential accessory. [7]However, quality headphones don’t come cheap. Thankfully, there are still plenty of top-performing options that can be found at a budget-friendly price.
The Plantronics BackBeat Fit 6100 is one of these. These wireless headphones are specialized for workouts and active lifestyles, with an emphasis on comfort, fit, and durability. They’ve been praised by experts from two of the most trusted sources on the internet: CNET and SoundGuys. In their objective hands-on reviews, both publications awarded the BackBeat FIT 6100 with high marks, making it an excellent choice for music lovers on a budget.[8]
These headphones are made from impact-resistant materials, and feature a durable, comfortable over-ear design with soft cushioned padding on the headband and ear cups. They’re also equipped with an active noise cancelling system that uses audio software to generate sounds that counteract those produced by surrounding ambient noise. This technology can make listening to music in noisy environments a much more enjoyable experience.
Another excellent feature of the BackBeat FIT 6100 is its Bluetooth 5.0 support with AAC and SBC codecs. This makes them compatible with a wide range of electronic devices, from modern smartphones to consoles. In addition to their wireless Bluetooth connectivity, the headphones also have a traditional audio cable that can be used when connecting to non-Bluetooth devices.
Moreover, the headphones are equipped with a power/Bluetooth pairing switch and an open mic button that allows you to let in ambient sounds for increased awareness. This can be useful when jogging around the neighborhood or when you’re trying to have a conversation with your coworkers at work.[9]
These headphones have a battery life of up to 24 hours, and they’re easy to charge thanks to a Micro-USB port and cable included in the box. They’re available in several different color schemes, so you should be able to find a style that suits your personal aesthetic.
Sennheiser PXC 550-II
Sennheiser is a company that pays little attention to gimmicks and puts all its efforts toward functionality and sound quality. The PXC 550-II upgrade to the first generation model is an excellent example of this approach. Their active noise cancellation performance keeps pace with best-in-class alternatives from Sony and Bose, yet they’re obtainable for less than $200 USD.
The earcups are quite large and well-insulated, which explains the impressive isolation performance. [10]The soundstage is spacious and sounds full of life despite their relatively compact size. They’re also extremely comfortable to wear and are an outstanding choice for long listening sessions.
On the software front, they offer a very complete feature set that includes Bluetooth codecs and support for voice assistants (Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant). They have 100dB of sensitivity and harmonic distortion is below 0.5% which ensures an accurate reproduction of your music files. They’re also compatible with the Qualcomm aptX codec that supports lossless playback, leaving more of your source audio intact than the Apple-friendly SBC version found on most budget headphones.
Like the Bose QC35, these headphones are staggeringly quiet when they’re sitting at idle and the battery will last for 30 hours with ANC engaged. They’re stable connected to all the devices I tried them with, with no audible hiss or hum at any point and the claimed wireless range is very respectable too.[11]
While not the most attractive headphones around, they’re very easy on the eyes and come with a sturdy carrying case that looks and feels premium. The case isn’t on a par with what you get with the Sony WH-1000XM3’s or the Bose NC 700’s, though, and it doesn’t include any kind of storage pouch.
For those who prefer to be able to control their headphones manually, the PXC 550-II’s come with a few physical controls and a power button that doubles as a way to connect with Alexa. They’re also compatible with a 2.5mm cable that terminates in a standard headphone jack, so you can continue to listen wired if necessary. The only thing I can fault them for is a slight clicking noise that occurs with movement, which isn’t really a big deal unless you’re wearing them while running.
Best Casual Wired Headphones Under $200
If you enjoy a good mix of music, podcasts, and audiobooks on the go, a quality pair of headphones is essential. [12]The right set of headphones will provide crisp, clear sound and deliver high-quality vocals. While high-quality headphones can be quite expensive, you don’t have to break the bank when shopping for a pair. You can find a variety of wired and wireless headsets that fit the $200 budget range.
Whether you want to purchase a new pair of wired or wireless headphones, it is important that you consider the following factors when making your decision:
Comfort is a key factor when selecting a headset. You don’t want to buy a pair that is not comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time. Choosing a headset with soft, comfortable ear pads and a headband that is made of durable materials will ensure that you can listen to your favorite tunes for hours without feeling any discomfort.
Many wired and wireless headphones feature noise canceling technology that eliminates unwanted ambient sound from the headset’s ear cups. This is a great feature for those who need to focus on work or study, as it will allow you to block out the distractions of your surroundings and fully immerse yourself in your favorite music or podcast.
The RS120 from Sennheiser is one of the best wireless headphones under 200 that provides high-quality sound for a very low price. These headphones are engineered with RF transmission, which allows for a long wireless range of over 30 feet and delivers crystal-clear reception. [13]Users praise the RS120 for its lightweight design that is easy to wear and doesn’t cause any discomfort. The ear cups are constructed from premium materials, and the headband is covered in soft, durable fabric.
The Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR is another excellent pair of open headphones under 200 that provide a superior listening experience for an affordable price. These headphones offer great flexibility because they can be attached to a wide array of electronic devices, including stereo receivers and flat-screen televisions. They also connect to a mobile phone or laptop computer for convenient use when traveling or working from home.
Best Audiophile Headphones Under $200
If you’re an audiophile, you know that headphones should be able to offer precise, accurate sound reproduction. Fortunately, you don’t have to break the bank to find a pair that sounds great and lasts a long time. Purchasing a pair of high-quality headphones under $200 can be a good investment for your listening needs, especially if you want to listen to your favorite music in a variety of different environments.[14]
The headphones that make our list of the best audiophile headphones under $200 represent the products that have been ranked highly in multiple top headphone lists across the internet. These headphones provide pristine audio and above-average durability for a headphone that costs less than $200. Often, people have low expectations of inexpensive headphones because they typically have shorter product lives than their more expensive counterparts. However, the five headphones featured here provide a comfortable and long-lasting wearing experience while producing pristine audio.
One of the best headphones for audiophiles under $200 is the Bose Soundlink on-ear Bluetooth headphone. This headphone offers a sleek design constructed of durable plastic. It weighs a mere 8 ounces and provides a comfortable fit. Its ear cups feature memory foam covered in faux leather and the headband has soft padding. This makes the headphone comfortable to wear for long periods of time and can be used as a travel companion.[15]
Another option for high-quality headphones under $200 is the Sennheiser HD 560S open-back headphones. These headphones excel in high fidelity and neutral reproduction by balancing all elements of recurrence equilibrium, reaction to spatial detail, and resolution. In addition, the HD 560S headphones are flexible and efficient as they have a lightweight design and provide an impressive 27 hours of playtime with or without noise-canceling technology.
Many audiophiles prefer to purchase headphones from a well-known brand. This is because popular brands usually guarantee reliability. Additionally, these headphones are usually made with premium materials that will keep the headphone’s components durable. Additionally, these headphones are likely to be backed by a manufacturer’s warranty and have excellent customer service.[16]
Lastly, purchasing headphones from a reputable online store is essential for many consumers. This is because the online marketplaces have numerous options for buyers to choose from and provide an opportunity to compare products from different manufacturers. In addition to offering a wide selection, these stores also have knowledgeable staff who can help you select the right headphones for your specific needs.
Best Earbuds Under $200
When you want a great headset for listening to music and audiobooks on your commute or for just relaxing, you may be looking for earbuds. They are usually very lightweight and comfortable to wear. Many of them also have built-in microphones for hands-free calls.[17] They are very portable and come with a case to keep them safe when not in use. Some earbuds even have Bluetooth capabilities. You can pair them with your smartphone or other Bluetooth devices to listen to your music wirelessly. You should choose a headset that has a long battery life and quick charging capabilities. This way, you don’t have to stop listening to your music every half an hour or so to recharge it.
The Monoprice Monolith M565 is one of the best earbuds under 200 dollars that provides high-quality sound and comfort. It is not intended to compete with the Sony WH-1000XM4 or Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700, but it will please most listeners. It has a neutral frequency response that gives it a good balance between bass and mids. It also has a very high quality microphone. The only problem is that the bass can be a little overwhelming for some listeners.
If you are a hard-core audiophile, then you might be interested in the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO. These headphones aren’t advertised as military-grade, but they are very durable and provide great isolation from ambient noise. They are also very comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. They have a closed-back design that blocks most of the external noise and have 40mm drivers. They are a great choice for listeners who need to focus on their music and can’t afford expensive studio headphones.[18]
The Sony WH-CH710N is the best value for a modern, wireless headset under $200. It has everything you could expect from a top-rated set of headphones: active noise cancellation, Bluetooth 5.0 with NFC pairing and support for Siri and Google Assistant voice controls, a powerful 35-hour battery that can be revived in 10 minutes of charging, and an excellent build that is rugged and stylish.
Best Sounding Wireless Earbuds Under $200
In a world where music is the soundtrack to our lives, high-quality headphones are a must. Whether you’re looking for a wireless pair or an over-the-ear headphone, there are plenty of options to choose from. When you’re on a budget, $200 is a great price point to find a quality set of headphones that will let you listen to your favorite tunes in style.
The Sony WH-CH700N is one of the best headphones for 200 dollars that offers great value as a modern wireless headphone.[19] It comes with excellent noise canceling and a long battery life. The ear cups are made with plush and soft materials to keep you comfortable throughout listening sessions. The headband also features a premium look with faux leather and a canvas back cover.
They have a large 40 mm sound driver that delivers a crisp and clear audio performance. It provides an excellent balance of frequencies, with a strong bass and treble. It is ideal for DJs and audiophiles who want to feel the beat of their favorite songs.
These headphones are built with the latest technology to ensure a comfortable fit and great sound quality. It uses Bluetooth 5.0 technology and supports AAC, aptX and aptX Low Latency codecs to allow you to play high-definition music. The headphones also come with a smart app that allows you to customize the audio experience and track your battery status and software updates.
While not the most expensive pair of headphones, this pair by Sennheiser is one of the best for under 200 dollars. They offer superior comfort and have a sleek design that will fit any style. The ear cups feature soft padding and a wide opening to let you hear more of the music.[20] They also have a cable for wired listening if you prefer that option.
When it comes to finding the best headphones for your budget, you must think about the qualities you’re looking for. Some people only care about comfort and how they’ll look while others are more concerned with the audio quality. While there are many different types of headphones available, the ones in this list all have one thing in common: They are the valedictorians of their class and represent some of the best products on the market.
